Torre Latino

Mexico City, Mexico

On April 30, 1956, México City welcomed the opening of the tallest building in Latin America, 181 m from the ground to the top of the central antenna.

The Torre Latino was built in a very active seismic zone, so much so that the very next year, the Tower’s home town suffered an earthquake so violent that it toppled down the winged victory on that other symbol of Mexico City, the Independence Monument. The American Institute of Steel Construction awarded the Torre Latino a plaque to recognize the resilience of the structure. In 1985, a even stronger quake left the Tower unharmed again.

In 2006, to commemorate its 50th anniversary, the Tower underwent major restoration. A completely new façade was built on the lower floor after an adjoining building was demolished. Now the Tower stretches up from Plaza de San Francisco, neighboring one of the finest XVIIth century baroque churches. The Mirador observation roof was also completely restored and now houses an S-shaped, sculptural stair of forged iron and curved glass. The observation area was also increased in size for the benefit of visitors who enjoy the fine views it offers of Mexico City’s historical centre, volcanoes, mountains and old buildings. All restorations were carried out in full accord with the Tower’s status as a registered historic site. At the same time the Tower’s lifts and air conditioning were modernized and new facilities added to make the Torre Latino not just a must see visitor attraction, but also a complex of luxury offices & lofts and a communications hub.